More than 250 University of Western Ontario students will be hitting the streets Saturday to participate in the annual service learning program, Western Serves.
The greater London community and many of its charitable organizations have once again stepped up and provided spaces for students. The innovative service learning initiative established by the university’s Centre for New Students and Residence Life Department in 2007.
Western Serves is a one-day program that engages students, faculty and staff in meaningful service activities in the London community. The program gives participants the opportunity to make a difference locally while supporting the strong relationship between the university and the City of London.
This year, more than 250 enthusiastic students, faculty and staff will be taking part in service activities ranging from tree planting with ReForest London to assisting with the London Food Bank’s ‘Race to Erase’ event.
“It’s amazing to see such engaged students at Western. Once the email went out to the students announcing the program, all 250 spaces were filled in less than a day,” says Catherine Mulvihill, Coordinator, Student Engagement Programs. “It is obvious that students have a real desire to give back to the London community.”
The participants meet on campus at 11 a.m. for registration. Following a briefing of the day’s events, buses then shuttle participants to local project sites where Western’s students, faculty and staff will actively volunteer throughout the day. At the end of the day, participants return to campus to enjoy a celebratory meal and engage in reflection about their experiences.
Service learning is a form of experiential education that helps participants to deepen their academic knowledge and gain an understanding of the world in which they live. By connecting community service to intentional reflection, participants are able to develop a sense of civic responsibility, strengthen personal values, and clarify professional goals.